CHIKMAGALUR: The last rites of four tribals who were killed in an encounter were conducted on Thursday at Hattidka hill near Menasinahadya in Koppa taluk.

Police handed over the bodies of Ramegowda, Kaveramma, Parameshwar and Sundaresh to Menasinahadya GP member Devendra on Thursday morning. The villagers opted for the funeral after release of the Ramegowda family members who were arrested for security reasons. With news of the award of bail by Koppa court to the arrested, the last rites were conducted at the spot where the encounter took place.

Progressive thinkers and tribals, who were arrested from various parts of the district, were released on bail on Thursday. Kuduremukh National Park Virodhi Horata Okkuta president Kalkulu Vittal Hegde, Adivasi Girijana Hitarakshana Horata Samiti district president Krishnegouda and secretary Mariyappa are among the released.

Those who were arrested at Balehonnur and lodged in Shimoga jail, were also released.